NEW YORK – Barstool Sports personality and podcast host Brianna Chickenfry, who is also known for her past relationship with country music star Zach Bryan, says she was surprised to discover just how many people in her personal life support President Donald Trump.
During an episode of BFFs with Josh Richards and Brianna Chickenfry, LaPaglia (her real last name) reflected on political polarization and how she’s come to realize she’s often surrounded by Trump supporters — even though she considers herself liberal.
“Newsflash: the majority of the country voted for Trump,” she said. “So, what, am I gonna sit in my house and not talk to anyone? Because, like, everyone that I f—ing know in the real world, it’s like, yeah, everyone voted for Trump.”
LaPaglia said the realization was a “reality check” for her, admitting she hadn’t realized how many people in her own circles supported the former president.
She also recalled facing backlash after posting a video critical of Trump. Some questioned why she still worked with Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy, a known Trump supporter.
“I can’t understand that mentality — just because I don’t have the same political opinions as someone doesn’t mean I can’t respect you or be your friend,” she said.
“We Have to Talk to Each Other”
Her co-host Josh Richards echoed that sentiment, saying partisan hatred only deepens divisions.
“Hating somebody just because they vote for a different person than you is not going to fix any problems that are being faced in America,” Richards said.
He added that meaningful conversations come from engaging with people who see things differently.
“If you lean a certain way, you should want to be talking with the people that lean the other way the most,” he said. “That’s what actually helps your perspective — or even changes it.”
LaPaglia’s comments come as Trump continues to dominate national polling heading into the 2026 midterms, reflecting what she called a growing “disconnect” between online discourse and what everyday people actually believe.
